Though the purpose of the park is simply a fenced-in place where dogs can run free, building it means more than just putting up a fence.

The town has had to install a parking lot, a gate with a security system, utilities and a concrete pad for the entrance area.

Total estimated cost: $28,000. That money was included in the town’s 2006-07 budget.

Town crews have done all the work so the project has been cheaper but slower, Jeffrey said.

The park will be open to everybody but will require a yearly registration fee. Town officials hope it pays for itself.

It will cost $35 per year for New Hartford residents and $70 per year for nonresidents. There are a maximum of three dogs allowed in the park per registrant.

“I don’t know if it will be a revenue enhancement or if it will be a wash,” Town Supervisor Earle Reed said.

However, “I think the response will be extremely favorable,” he said.

Plans for the park include dividing it into three or four sections, including a large dog area, a small dog area and then an area where the dog can be by themselves, Jeffrey said. It will not include a staff member, Jeffrey said.